It was commissioned in 1955 for a cost of $58,000, and dedicated in 1958. In its left hand, the large seated figure holds a gilt bronze sphere emanating rays to symbolize God. In its right hand is a family group symbolizing all human relationships. The 26-foot (7.9 m) sculpture was the largest cast bronze statue since the Renaissance when it was first installed.

The statue underwent a restoration in 2006, funded by foundations and other private donations.

The sculpture was not actually named. Nevertheless, it bears an inscription from 2 Corinthians (3:17) on the wall behind it: "Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty." It also includes the seals of the city and the county. A plaque in front of the sculpture bears the inscription, "Through the spirit of man is manifested in the family, the noblest human relationship."

The statue is dressed in sports jerseys when the local professional teams are in the playoffs. It was also once dressed in a tuxedo during a visit by the Three Tenors.